Flats at centre of probe into the alleged kidnap of a 10-year-old to reopen

Black Country Housing Group are in talks to buy Lowrey Court, Bristnall Hall Road. Tenants of flats, where a child allegedly kidnapped was found by police, were originally moved out of their homes last November. The joint decision was taken by residents at Lowrey Court and the Adullam Homes Housing Association, which ran the block.

People were moved to other association properties, leaving the block empty.

Tenants feared attacks by people who thought the block was used as a halfway house for offenders, although this was denied by police.

Jay Rana, of the association today said: "This purchase is currently under way and should be finalised in the next couple of months.

"Black Country Housing Group have consulted with the local community and local councillors to turn this property into a specialist community housing unit.

"They have shared with Adullam Homes that they intend to completely refurbish this unit to accommodate their local residents."

Steve Woods, Adullam Homes Housing Association director of business development said: "We are pleased the Black Country Housing Group have decided to work with us to turn this unfortunate incident into something that will benefit people who are living in the local area."

After the alleged kidnap more than 500 people lined streets nearby in a protest by a group called Sandwell United Parents, which has child safety concerns. Membership of the group has since risen beyond 1,000.

Michael Jackson, aged 49, previously of Lowrey Court, was today due in court charged with two child kidnaps, including that alleged at Lowrey Court.

He is accused of the kidnap and sexual assault of a child last year.